Creso Pharma finalises development of hemp-based feedstock to reduce tail biting in pig herds

Biotechnology company Creso Pharma (ASX: CPH) has finalised the development of a hemp-derived feedstock known as Anibidoil Swine to support stress reduction and wellbeing in pigs.

The Swiss-made flour and oat bran product has been designed to lower pig discomfort and reduce the occurrence of tail biting – a common problem in pig herds which can impact the commercial value of animals at slaughter.

Creso began developing the product in March 2020 on the back of concerns from the farming community and following reports of the positive impact of hemp plants on pig stress.

It is expected to bring considerable benefits to pig herds while providing farmers with a hemp-based, animal health-focused complementary feedstock.

New market

Commercial and development director Dr Gian Trepp said the new product gives Creso entry into a new market beyond its existing reach in the household pet space.

“Anibidiol swine was developed to address the need for an effective, natural and plant-based complementary feed to support the reduction of stress and swine tail biting,” he said.

“We are very pleased to have this product ready for launch on a global basis [and] we expect it will provide access into another lucrative vertical and contribute to [our] growing revenue stream.”

Creso will begin marketing Anibidoil Swine to farmers and breeders through its animal health partner and distributor network.

The initial focus will be on markets in Europe and Latin America, with first sales expected to veterinarians, livestock feed shops and online customers in the second half of this year.

The global swine feed market is projected to grow to $190.26 billion by 2027, based on a population of over 700 million pigs, with approximately 150 million in Europe and 67 million in Latin America.

Common problem

Tail biting is a common problem among pig herds and can result in permanent lesions which may decrease the value of the animals at slaughter.

Biting can vary in severity from light manipulation to physical harming, causing infection and swelling in the surrounding areas and ultimately, lung abscesses or septicaemia.

A bleeding tail stimulates the interest of other pigs in a pen and is often an attractive target for further biting.

Tail biting works to divert an animal’s attention away from the issue that is causing stress or discomfort, such as poor ventilation, gastrointestinal pain or an imbalanced diet.

Industry reports have previously shown a positive impact when using hemp plants to reduce stress and tail biting in pig herds.